Designed to be safe, fast and effective, even on tough terrain, the "Tornado" cable blowing machine will move fiber optic cable of 0.23 to 1.25 in. (5.84-32 mm) diameter at speeds to 300 ft./min. (90 m/min.) into pre-installed innerduct or direct-buried duct. It can accommodate innerduct from .47 to 2.48 in. (12-63 mm). A conversion kit allows the Tornado to place 12.7/10mm, 12/10mm or 10/8mm micro duct into the innerduct.
Comprised of an aluminum air box and cable pusher, the "Tornado" uses compressed air to install the cable with or without a missile. In operation, the hydraulically powered, caterpillar belt drive system controls the fiber optic cable as it is propelled by compressed air into the duct. An electronic monitoring system provides read-outs of speed and distance, protects cable against duct obstructions, and includes an emergency stop facility.
The air box and cable pusher are mounted on a lightweight, tubular-steel frame that can be tilted at a 30-degree angle to the manhole, which minimizes significantly any bending of the innerduct and cable. The frame has height adjustment to permit ease of maneuverability, and adjustable rear legs that provide added stability on uneven terrain.